Answer

There is not just one Jain calendar followed everywhere. In practice, Jains may follow different calendar traditions depending on:

• region,
• sect or sampradāy,
• local temple tradition,
• printed panchāng or calendar used,
• sunrise timing and tithi calculation.

So, it is possible that one calendar shows Saptami while another shows Ashtami on the same civil date.

What should you do?

Since you avoid root vegetables on Ashtami and Chaturdashi, the safest and most spiritually careful approach is:

• If there is doubt, observe the stricter discipline.
• So today, you may avoid root vegetables.
• Follow the Jain calendar or panchāng accepted by your local temple or guru for regular practice.
• If your family follows a specific traditional calendar, maintain consistency with that unless your guru or temple guides otherwise.

Explanation

In Jain practice, religious observances are generally based on tithi, not only on the English date. A tithi can begin or end at different times, and depending on the rule used—especially whether the tithi is present at sunrise—different calendars may mark the day differently.

That is why one calendar may say Saptami and another may say Ashtami.

Spiritual Understanding

Avoiding root vegetables on sacred days like Ashtami and Chaturdashi is connected with greater care in ahiṃsā, restraint, and self-discipline.

If confusion arises, choosing restraint does not harm spiritually. In Jain Dharma, extra carefulness in food discipline is generally considered beneficial when done with right understanding and without ego.

Takeaway

There are multiple Jain calendar traditions in use. For consistency, follow your temple, guru, or family tradition. But when in doubt about Ashtami or Chaturdashi, it is better to avoid root vegetables that day.